Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Lindsey Coffelt. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, Lindsey thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We love asking folks what they would do differently if they were starting today – how they would speed up the process, etc. We’d love to hear how you would set everything up if you were to start from step 1 today
Building relationships and learning to network! I wish we would have gotten branded apparel and business cards, joined and attended networking events and meetings as soon as we decided to open our store.
Lindsey, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
When we decided to start our own business, we started researching business models and found franchising to be the most effective way to get up and running. We discovered Graze Craze while doing our research and instantly fell in love with the concept. Graze Craze is a unique business model based on charcuterie, the creative arrangement of meats, cheeses, fruits, and dessert items on an attractive board. Graze Craze is leading a nationwide food trend known as “grazing” by offering charcuterie-style grazing boxes for personal snacking or larger social gatherings. The grazing style allows people to enjoy small portions of food during the day or at special events.
My husband, Silas, and I did not have any experience or knowledge in this industry, but franchising provides a built-in support system and a framework that helps you get your business up and running. It’s one thing to know about a trend and a whole other thing to know how to make it a business. We’re incredibly grateful for Graze Craze because they lay out all the processes and structure for you. A franchisee’s role is to execute the ideas they’ve provided – which are really thoughtful, efficient, and fun!
I’ve owned the Okemos Graze Craze for a little over a year. I oversee all administration, marketing, sales, accounting, and human resources for the business. It’s hard work, but if you invest your time and energy in the right places, it truly pays off. I was very proud to receive the Social Media Presence Award at the annual Graze Craze Brand Expo. To be recognized in just my first year of ownership – that really blew my hair back. I am proud of my work marketing our location, and what an honor to be recognized by so many other marketing professionals!
Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?
Start ASAP! I started a private Facebook group and took people along our journey of building out our store, training, etc. People felt included and loved the behind the scenes posts. When we opened, we had a fan base. Post everyday and anywhere they’ll let you. Make your posts entertaining, short, informational, and most importantly, authentic. People can smell AI from a mile away. Don’t forget to put your contact information or signature at the bottom of each post to make it easy for people to find you.
Let’s talk M&A – we’d love to hear your about your experience with buying businesses.
We were given an opportunity to purchase an existing Graze Craze store in a great area by Detroit. We jumped at the chance and are currently working on pivoting it from B2C to B2B. We are reaching out to businesses, venues, and getting involved with area chambers and networking groups.
